Yeah that's so people can set up a stock update request for when the 3 is in. The pic is in the 2010 version of the frame. The metal isn't heated, as that would make it weaker. Yeah the ripple isn't all the way. Yes, as it states, the triangular shaped chainstays are to help resist denting. It seems like it's had a lot of thought gone into it, yeah, wouldn't be my personal choice but that's the beauty of so many frame designs being available now!